Cheltenham's Hidden Treasures: Must-Visit Villages for an Authentic Cotswold Experience

Nestled in the village of Southam, close to Cheltenham, Pigeon House Cottage Bed & Breakfast invites you to explore the picturesque Cotswold must-visit villages that surround our 14th Century haven. Cheltenham's allure extends beyond its cultural centre into the captivating charm of its nearby villages. Here, we present to you a curated list of the 10 best villages to visit around Cheltenham, each with its own unique character.

1. Prestbury: Where Time Stands Still Just a stone's throw from Pigeon House Cottage, Prestbury exudes an old-world charm with its thatched-roof cottages, historic church, and tree-lined streets. Stroll through the village to admire the architecture and enjoy a leisurely visit to one of the pub gardens.

2. Winchcombe: A Medieval Gem Step back in time as you explore Winchcombe's medieval streets, adorned with half-timbered buildings and narrow alleyways. Don't miss Sudeley Castle, home to captivating gardens and rich history. Home also to Winchcombe Cotswolds Walking Festival in May each year.

3. Broadway: The "Jewel of the Cotswolds" Known for its striking beauty, Broadway boasts honey-coloured stone buildings and a vibrant arts scene. Take a walk up to Broadway Tower  and Park for panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.

4. Stanton and Stanway: Twin Treasures Discover the adjacent villages of Stanton and Stanway, both renowned for their chocolate-box Cotswold beauty. Stanton's unspoiled charm and Stanway's Jacobean manor and picturesque watermill are must-sees.

5. Bibury: A Postcard-Perfect Paradise Famed for Arlington Row, one of England's most photographed sites, Bibury enchants visitors with its idyllic setting along the River Coln. Take a leisurely stroll and breathe in the tranquility.

6. Burford: Where History Comes Alive Burford's medieval bridge and High Street lined with antique shops and tea rooms make for an enchanting visit. Don't miss the imposing church and the Tolsey Museum to delve into the village's history.

7. Nailsworth: Quirky and Creative For a slightly different experience, Nailsworth offers a blend of creativity and community spirit. Explore art galleries, boutique shops, and enjoy a taste of its eclectic food scene.

8. Painswick: Rococo Gardens and Beyond Known for its beautifully landscaped Rococo Garden, Painswick is a delight to the senses. Wander through the village's historic streets and take in the panoramic views from Painswick Beacon.

9. Tetbury: Antiques and Architecture Round off your village exploration with a visit to Tetbury, renowned for its antique shops and charming architecture. The Market House is a focal point, surrounded by unique boutiques and eateries.

10. Bourton-on-the-Water: Venice of the Cotswold Enchanted with its meandering River WIndrush and honey-coloured stone bridges that grace its heart. This Cotswold gem is a picturesque haven, boasting a model village, Birdland Park's avian wonders, and vintage automobiled at the Cotswold Motoring Museum. Visitors are able to explore lush gardens, enjoy cream teas by the water's edge, and revel in the Cotswold countryside on scenic walks. Bourton-on-the-Water bridges the past and present, inviting all to lose themselves in its idyllic beauty and storybook charm.

11. Stow-on-the-Wold: Majestic Charm on High Perched atop rolling Cotswold hills, Stow-on-the-Wold stands as a beacon of old-world appeal. Its ancient market square, bordered by historic buildings, welcomes travellers to explore a tapestry of boutiques, antique shops, and traditional inns. The grand St. Edward's Church presides over the scene, a reminder of the village's rich history. Cobbled streets lead to unexpected treasures, while the panoramic views from Stow's elevated position offer vistas of the surrounding countryside. Stow-on-the-Wold, a blend of market-town vibrancy and timeless beauty, invites visitors to enjoy its Cotswold charm and partake in its centuries-old heritage.

12. Lower Slaughter: Tranquil Beauty Beckons Nestled along the serene banks of the River Eye, Lower Slaughter exudes a sense of timeless tranquility. Its enchanting stone cottages, adorned with vibrant gardens, create a postcard-perfect scene. Wander the meandering pathways that wind past the 19th-century water mill, listening to the gentle flow of the river. This idyllic village offers an escape from the modern world, inviting visitors to embrace its peaceful ambiance and soak in the charm of rural England.

13. Upper Slaughter: A Tale of Elegance and Heritage Upper Slaughter, neighbour to Lower Slaughter, offers equally picturesque streets. Home to historic manor houses and the stunning St. Peter's Church, showcasing Norman origins. The village's enchanting beauty is complemented by the tranquil River Eye, crossed by an ancient footbridge. Upper Slaughter's storybook charm and connection to the past make it a must-see destination for those seeking a glimpse into Cotswold's architectural and historical splendour.

As you embark on this journey through Cheltenham's delightful villages, we invite you to make Pigeon House Cottage Bed & Breakfast your home away from home. After a day of exploring, return to our sumptuous rooms, where comfort and hospitality await. Book your stay with us and experience the magic of Cheltenham and its surrounding villages first-hand. Your adventure begins here, at Pigeon House Cottage.